Controlling the Phal flower spike

[labyrinth1959]

Assuming a Phal has started a new flower spike, where is it most likely to start and how do you train it to grow straight upwards?

[WhiteRabbit]

Spikes will come up in a leaf axil (in-between the leaf and the 'trunk'). Spikes grow towards the light, so they need to be staked if you want an upright spike.

Here's a thread with some info about staking a spike Staking a flower spike?

[Orchid Whisperer]

Another option is to allow the spike to arch naturally rather than staking (though there is nothing wrong with staking if that is your preference)

[NYCorchidman]

Where do you grow it?
If in the greenhouse or under light bulb, the spike will naturally go upright until the buds develop and arch down.

By the window, it will grow toward to where the light comes in, so the spike sill make an angle.
Some people turn the pot around, but I wouldn't recommend because doing so can result in flowers opening up in all directions and orietations unless you stop turning it around at proper time.

So, if it's near the window, let it just grow a while until it reaches about 8 inch or so, then start staking it straight up. You might have to do this every week or two to make sure the whole thing stands straight up.

Good luck!